Celebrity architect George Clarke who grew up in Washington and Rothbury TV presenter Alexander Armstrong joined the King of the brusque interview Jeremy Paxman and airline president Sir Tim Clark KBE in receiving honorary doctorates from Northumbria University.

Pointless presenter comedian and singer Alexander became the ninth generation ‘doctor’ in his family after being awarded his honorary degree in front of his retired GP father.

The actor, who is set to start a tour of his new album at the City Hall next month, said: “It is a colossal honour, it is really quite special and truly a great thing. Maybe I should start using the title doctor now, maybe only when I am booking restaurants.

“I feel there is a lot of weight on my shoulders now, and it is not just because of this gown. The fact that this is a North East University, the great University of Northumbria makes it even more special.”

Britain’s most famous architect, George Clarke now has quite a collection of degrees from the institutes of the North East, with his honorary degree from Northumbria University wrestling for pride of place alongside an honorary degree from Sunderland University and his Architecture degree from Newcastle University.

The Sunderland born TV star said: “I am a North East boy and it is great to see the opportunities Northumbria University is opening up to people with its fantastic architecture department. To be recognised by such a good university is such an honour and the fact it is in the North East is the reason I accepted. I will have all three certificates in my office.”

Actor Alexander Armstrong who received a honorary degree at Northumbria University in Newcastle

George was full of praise for his native North East.

“It’s nice to be back in Newcastle and I am very proud of my heritage. The North East has obviously faced difficult times but it has seen such brilliant things in recent years,” he said. “There is a drive and creativity in the region and great things are happening.”

The TV charmer caused quite a stir on his visit to the Department of Architecture and Built Environment with several students doing double takes and peering to catch a glimpse of him while student support staff swooned over him, however George rubbished the notion of being famous.

He said: “When you are from the North East, you stay grounded, I know Ant and Dec quite well and they are both the same. If any of us started to let it go to our heads we’ve got plenty of friends and family who would bring us right back down to earth.”

The ceremonies were the first presided over by the recently-appointed Chancellor Tanni Grey-Thompson.

Sir Tim Clarke who received a honorary degree at the Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University....Pictured with Prof. Kevin Kerrigan (left) and Prof. Jon Reast (right).

Sir Tim said: “I can see that here with the number of international links Northumbria has, and the broad base of foreign students. As well as the academic side, you’re adding a cultural spin, which is great.”

Paxman took the time to meet journalism students for a question and answer discussion.

He said: “Journalists shouldn’t be taken too seriously-by themselves or others, but this is a treat. Thank you!”